Fly Fishing Fundamentals Program Planned

Rim Country residents can learn the fundamentals of fly fishing from the experts in the Payson Flycasters in a free program next month.

The Payson Parks and Recreation Department is partnering with the Payson Flycasters to present the program.

"We are providing the facilities and they are providing the expertise," said town recreational specialist Mary McMullen.

The program is at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 12. It will start in the parks office with a slide show and continue at the lake with practice casting, McMullen said.

She recommends registering now by calling the parks office at (928) 474-5251, ext. 7, but if space remains, registration will be open through Jan. 11.

The partnership will continue through the spring, McMullen said. There are plans to also have programs on rod building and fly tying.

ATV training

One story about a death in an ATV accident is one too many. With the popularity of the sport, there are unfortunately several such stories that must be written each year.

Rim Country ATV enthusiasts can reduce some of the risk by participating in an upcoming ATV Rider Course presented by the ATV Safety Institute and the Town of Payson Parks and Recreation Department.

There will be two chances to participate in the program, which is being taught by certified specialist Tony Menegon. The first is on Saturday, Jan. 19; the second is Feb. 23.

Residents who are purchasing a new ATV for the holidays, or have recently bought bought one of the recreational vehicles, have a certificate in their paperwork entitling them to take the course for free. There is a minimal fee for others.

The program is open to all ages, but a parent must accompany riders under 12.

There will be hands-on operation training offered as part of the course.

Class size will be limited, so register now by calling (800) 887-2887.

Hike planned

The Payson Area Trails System program is having a free hike Monday, Jan. 21. Register at the parks office in Green Valley Park and get a hiking checklist to have all the necessities.

The hike will start at the Payson Event Center Trailhead and end at the Peach Orchard Trailhead.

"It is a moderate-level hike," McMullen said.

Call the parks office at (928) 474-5251, ext. 7 or go online to paysonparks.com for details and updates on future programs.